Stories behind the changing face of work

Since 1965, the Centre for Industrial Relations and Human Resources (CIRHR) at the University of Toronto has, through its research, continually determined how the transforming world of work affects and impacts employees, employers, and government groups. It was through this “transformation” concept that we were able to articulate for CIRHR in their new brand theme: Knowledge for the changing face of work.

This year marks its 50th anniversary as a research institution. True to its form, the Centre grew to offer a masters program in employment relations – which also celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. This June, we helped CIRHR celebrate both milestones.

Knowing that the heart of the Centre is its people, the Centre’s librarians undertook the enormous task of going through 50 years’ worth of archives to capture the moments and milestones key to its history. Images, articles, textbooks, video clips – you name it, they had it. Staff, students, alumni, and faculty alike can see themselves reflected in the Centre’s new brand image – quite literally, as they saw their own photos in the banners and videos throughout the event.

With laughter over fond recollections, everyone present took in the day’s celebrations with interest and excitement. Short videos that we designed steered the afternoon session. Memories were shared of what the Centre meant to the alumni and through the stories, everyone learned more about the stories and history that make up the faces of CIRHR.